Check for Errors

Financial advisors recommend reviewing your credit report once every year or, at a minimum, before making large purchases with credit (e.g., buying a home or a car). If you think there is an error on your credit report contact the credit reporting agency and write a letter disputing the error. Keep a copy of the letter for your records. The credit reporting agencies are required to conduct an investigation within 30 days of receiving your letter.

It is your responsibility to ensure that your credit report is accurate. Credit reporting agencies do not check the accuracy of reported information unless you ask them to.

• It is best to review your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus once every 12 months or, at a minimum, before making large purchases with credit (e.g., buying a home or a car).
• If you think there is an error on your credit report, contact the credit reporting agency and write a letter disputing the error. Keep a copy of the letter for your records.  (A sample dispute letter can be found on page 17 of your Participant Guide.) You may also be able to file the dispute online through the credit bureau’s website.
• The credit reporting agencies are required to conduct an investigation within 30 days of receiving your letter.